Universal ski conversion device for a stroller or bicycle trailer

ABSTRACT

A ski conversion device for a stroller or a bicycle trailer including: wheel braces for attachment to first and second skis and for receiving the first and second wheels; connecting elements for fixing the wheels to wheel braces; orientation braces for attachment to skis; orientation elements for connecting the stroller or the bicycle trailer to the orientation braces and for fixing an orientation of the stroller or the bicycle trailer with respect to the skis; a rigger element for connecting to a ski and including a runner element; and yokes for connection to the skis, the yokes attachable to a source of energy for propelling the ski conversion device. In a first position, the runner element is locatable between the first and second skis. In a second position, the runner element is locatable beyond the first ski in a direction from the second ski toward the first ski.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation-in-part patent application under 35 USC 120 ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/916,091, filed Oct. 29, 2010, whichapplication claims the benefit under 35U.S.C. 119(e) of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/256,503, filed Oct. 30, 2009.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to improvements in ski conversion devicefor a stroller or bicycle trailer. In particular, the present disclosurerelates to a ski conversion device that is adapted for use with a widevariety of stroller and bicycle trailer configurations.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The prior art teaches ski conversion kits that require complete removalof wheels and subsequent replacement of the wheels with a ski assembly.Also, the prior art teaches conversion kits that are only compatiblewith a single brand/model of ski trailer. Thus, the prior art teachesaway from a ski conversion kit adaptable to different brands or modelsof ski trailers.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a skiconversion device for a stroller or a bicycle trailer with first andsecond wheels, including: first and second wheel braces for attachmentto first and second skis and for receiving the first and second wheels,respectively; a plurality of connecting elements for fixing the firstand second wheels with respect to the first and second wheel braces,respectively; a plurality of orientation braces for attachment to thefirst and second skis; a plurality of orientation elements forconnecting the stroller or the bicycle trailer to the plurality oforientation braces and for fixing an orientation of the stroller or thebicycle trailer with respect to the first and second skis; a riggerelement for connecting to the first ski and including a runner element;and first and second yokes for connection to the first and second skis,respectively, the first and second yokes attachable to a source ofenergy for propelling the ski conversion device. In a first position,the runner element is locatable between the first and second skis. In asecond position, the runner element is locatable beyond the first ski ina direction from the second ski toward the first ski.

According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a skiconversion device for a stroller or a bicycle trailer with first andsecond wheels, including: first and second wheel braces for attachmentto first and second skis and for receiving the first and second wheels,respectively; a plurality of orientation braces for attachment to thefirst and second skis; a first plurality of connecting elements forfixing the first and second wheels with respect to the first and secondwheel braces, respectively; a plurality of orientation elements forconnecting the stroller or the bicycle trailer to the plurality oforientation braces; a first tracking element for connection to the firstski; and first and second yokes for connection to the first and secondskis, respectively, the first and second yokes attachable to a source ofenergy for propelling the ski conversion device. The first ski includesa first top surface to which the first wheel brace is connectable and afirst bottom surface, opposite the top surface. In a first position, afirst portion of the first tracking element extends beyond the firstbottom surface in a first direction from the first top surface towardthe first bottom surface.

According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a skiconversion device for a stroller or a bicycle trailer with first andsecond wheels, including: first and second wheel braces for connectionto first and second skis, respectively and to receive the first andsecond wheels, respectively; a first plurality of connecting elementsfor fixing the first wheel with respect to the first wheel brace; asecond plurality of connecting elements for fixing the second wheel withrespect to the second wheel brace; first and second orientation bracesfor connection to the first ski; a first orientation element including afirst end connected to the first orientation brace and a second end forconnection to at least one first point on the stroller or bicycletrailer; a second orientation element including a third end connected tothe second orientation brace and a fourth end for connection to at leastone second point on the stroller or bicycle trailer; first and secondyokes for connection to the first and second skis, respectively, thefirst and second yokes attachable to a source of energy for propellingthe ski conversion device. The stroller or bicycle trailer includes anaxis of rotation for the first and second wheels. The respective lengthsof the first and second orientation elements are adjustable such that anorientation of the stroller or bicycle trailer with respect to the axisof rotation is fixed by the first and second orientation elements.

According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a skiconversion device for a stroller or a bicycle trailer with first andsecond wheels, including: first and second wheel braces for connectionto first and second skis, respectively and to receive the first andsecond wheels, respectively; a first plurality of connecting elementsfor fixing the first wheel with respect to the first wheel brace; asecond plurality of connecting elements for fixing the second wheel withrespect to the second wheel brace; an orientation brace for connectionto the first ski; a rigid orientation element including a first endconnected to the orientation brace and a second end for connection to apoint on the stroller or bicycle trailer; and first and second yokes forconnection to the first and second skis, respectively, the first andsecond yokes attachable to a source of energy for propelling the skiconversion device. The stroller or bicycle trailer includes an axis ofrotation for the first and second wheels. The length of the rigidorientation element is adjustable such that an orientation of thestroller or bicycle trailer with respect to the axis of rotation isfixed by the rigid orientation element.

According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a skiconversion device for a stroller or a bicycle trailer with first andsecond wheels, including: first and second wheel braces for attachmentto first and second skis and for receiving the first and second wheels,respectively; a first plurality of connecting elements for fixing thefirst and second wheels with respect to the first and second wheelbraces, respectively; a plurality of orientation braces for attachmentto the first and second skis; a plurality of orientation elements forconnecting the stroller or the bicycle trailer to the plurality oforientation braces; a brake element including a first end for attachmentproximate an end of the first ski and a distal end, with a distal edge,extending beyond the end of the first ski; and first and second yokesfor connection to the first and second skis, respectively, the first andsecond yokes attachable to a source of energy for propelling the skiconversion device. For movement of the first and second skis in aforward direction, the distal edge is arranged to slide over a surfaceupon which the first and second skis are riding without wedging into thesurface. For movement of the first and second skis in a backwarddirection, opposite the forward direction, the distal edge is arrangedto wedge into the surface to retard movement of the first and secondskis in the backward direction.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments are disclosed, by way of example only, withreference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which correspondingreference symbols indicate corresponding parts, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a ski conversion device for a strolleror a bicycle trailer;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example stroller useable with the skiconversion device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an exploded detail of a yoke connection brace shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4A is a schematic detail of an adjustment device for a orientationelement;

FIG. 4B is a schematic detail of a rigid orientation element;

FIG. 5 is a detail of example tracking element for a ski conversiondevice shown;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are respective schematic details of an exampleadjustable tracking element for a ski conversion device;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are respective cross-sectional schematic details of anadjustable tracking element for a ski conversion device;

FIG. 8 is a detail of a brake element for a ski conversion device;

FIG. 9 is a schematic detail of a brake, with a resilient element, for aski conversion device;

FIG. 10 is a detail of a rigger element for a ski conversion device;and,

FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic drawings showing respectiveconfigurations of a rigger element for a ski conversion device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

At the outset, it should be appreciated that like drawing numbers ondifferent drawing views identify identical, or functionally similar,structural elements of the present disclosure. It is to be understoodthat the present disclosure as claimed is not limited to the disclosedaspects.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill inthe art to which the present disclosure belongs. Although any methods,devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein canbe used in the practice or testing of these embodiments, someembodiments of methods, devices, and materials are now described.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of ski conversion device, or kit, 10 forbicycle trailer 12.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of example stroller 13 useable with skiconversion device 10.

FIG. 3 is a detail of a yoke connection brace. The following should beviewed in light of FIGS. 1 through 3. The discussion that follows isaddressed to device 10 and bicycle trailer 12; however, it should beunderstood that unless indicated otherwise, the discussion also isapplicable to device 10 and stroller 13. Specifically, wheels 15 of thestroller is analogous to wheels 28 of trailer 12 and the operations andconfigurations described regarding device 10 and wheels 28 areapplicable to stroller 13 and wheels 15. Further, the connection oforientation elements 22 to trailer 12 is analogous to the connection oforientation elements 22 to stroller 13. In general, device 10 isconnected to the trailer as described infra, to enable the trailer to beconnected to a source of energy for propelling the ski conversiondevice, for example, a person on skis, snowshoes, or foot. Device 10includes wheel braces 14, yoke braces 16, orientation braces 18,connecting elements 20, orientation elements 22, and yokes 24. Wheelbraces 14 are for attachment to skis 26 and for receiving wheels 28 forthe trailer. The yoke braces 16 and orientation braces 18 are forattachment to the ski. The connecting elements are for fixing the wheelswith respect to the wheel braces. The orientation elements are forconnecting the trailer to the orientation braces and for fixing anorientation of the trailer with respect to the skis as described supra.Each yoke includes end 30 connected to a respective yoke brace. Distalends 32 of the yokes are attachable to a source of energy for propellingthe ski conversion device, as further described below. In an exampleembodiment, yoke braces 16 are integral to skis 26, for example, formedof a same piece of material as the top of the ski. In an exampleembodiment, orientation braces 18 are integral to skis 26, for example,formed of a same piece of material as the top of the ski.

The wheel braces, orientation braces, and yoke braces are attached tothe skis by any means known in the art, including, but not limited to,threaded fasteners or rivets. Any strap or securing device known in theart can be used for elements 20, including, but not limited to,resilient straps, quick-release devices, and ratcheting devices.

In an example embodiment, the wheel brace is U-shaped, or channel-shapedpiece with side walls 34 and bottom portion 36 joining the side walls.In an example embodiment, the bottom wall is in contact with top surface38 of the skis. The width of the wheel braces (between walls 34) issufficient to receive any bicycle trailer tire known in the art. In anexample embodiment (not shown), each wheel brace is integrally formedwith a respective ski, for example, the wheel brace is formed of a samepiece of material forming the top of the ski.

In an example embodiment, a single connecting element is used to fix awheel with respect to a wheel brace. In an example embodiment, multipleconnecting elements, for example, 20A through 20C are used to fix awheel with respect to a wheel brace. The multiple connection elementsexert at least partially opposing forces in directions D1 and D2 on thewheel to further stabilize the wheel with respect to the wheel brace. Itshould be understood that other multiple connection elementconfigurations are possible, such as only elements 20A and 20C withoutmiddle element 20B.

In an example embodiment, the yokes are pivotable with respect to theyoke braces. For example, the yoke braces include pins 42 passingthrough the braces and ends 30 of the yokes. The yokes are pivotableabout the pins, and thus, pivotable with respect to the skis and thetrailer. Any pin configuration known in the art can be used. In anexample embodiment, the pins are configured for quick-disconnect by anymeans known in the art, for example, in a cotter pin arrangement, toenable easy connection and disconnection of the yokes from the yokebraces.

FIG. 4A is a schematic detail of adjustment device 21 for an orientationelement. The following discussion is directed to a flexible orientationelement. Each orientation element 22 includes one end for connection toa respective orientation brace and one end orientation elements 22 forconnection to at least one point on the stroller or the bicycle trailer.

Each orientation element 22 is for connection to separate points on thestroller or the bicycle trailer. For example: orientation element 22A isconnected to brace 18A and is for connecting to at least one point 23Aon the bicycle trailer; orientation element 22B is connected to brace18B and is for connecting to at least one point 23B on the bicycletrailer, different from and separate from point 23A; and orientationelement 22C is for connecting to at least one point 23C on the bicycletrailer different from and separate from points 23A and 23B. A fourthorientation element 22, connected to an orientation brace 18 on ski 26Band to at least one point 23 on trailer 12, is not visible in FIG. 1.The at least one point on trailer 12 for the fourth strap is differentfrom points 23A-23C. Note that for stroller 13 handles 17 may be usableas connection points for orientation elements 22, for example forconnection point 23B and the fourth connection point not visible inFIG. 1. In an example embodiment (not shown), the orientation elementsat the back of the bicycle trailer or stroller can be connected to asame point or points. In an example embodiment (not shown), theorientation elements at the front of the bicycle trailer or stroller canbe connected to a same point or points.

Trailer 12 includes axis of rotation AR for wheels 28 (note that AR isanalogous to an axis of rotation for wheels 15 of stroller 13).Respective lengths 25 of orientation elements 22 are adjustable suchthat an orientation of the stroller or bicycle trailer with respect tothe axis of rotation is fixed by orientation elements 22, as furtherdescribed below. Stated otherwise, orientation elements 22 for a sameski 26 exert at least partially opposing forces in directions D1, D2,and D3 on the trailer to stabilize the trailer or stroller with respectto the skis and the axis of rotation. Any strap or flexible securingdevice known in the art can be used for flexible elements 22, including,but not limited to, resilient straps, quick-release devices, andratcheting devices.

FIG. 4B is a schematic detail of rigid orientation element 22D. In anexample embodiment, some or all of orientation elements 22 are rigid.For example, a rigid orientation element can be formed in a mannersimilar to that for the yokes and the discussion regarding yokes isapplicable to the rigid orientation elements. In an example embodimentas shown in FIG. 4B, a single rigid element 22D is used in place ofmultiple orientation elements 22. In an example embodiment, element 22Dis connected with pivoting or clamping arrangements. For example, oneend of element 22D is connected to brace 18 with a pivoting connection,for example, using pin 93. In an example embodiment, element 22D isconnected to the stroller or the bicycle trailer by clamp configuration95.

FIG. 5 is a detail of example tracking element 44A. The skis include topsurface 38 and bottom surface 46, opposite the top surface. In anexample embodiment, the ski conversion device includes tracking element44A fixedly connectable to a ski such that portion 50 of the trackingelement extends beyond the bottom surface in direction D3 from the topsurface toward the bottom surface. Element 44A enables movement of theski in forward direction D2, while preventing undesirable sliding orslippage in lateral direction L1 or L2, orthogonal to D2. Element 44Acan be connected to the ski by any means known in the art, including,but not limited to, threaded fasteners or rivets. In an exampleembodiment (not shown), each tracking element 44A is integrally formedwith a respective ski, for example, the tracking element is formed of asame piece of material forming at least a portion of the ski. In FIG. 5,if ski 26 is ski 26A, portion 50 is at an outside edge of the ski. InFIG. 5, if ski 26 is ski 26B, portion 50 is at an inside edge of theski. Thus, element 44A can be configured such that portion 50 is at aninside or an outside edge of a ski.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are respective details of example tracking element 44Bfor ski conversion device 10 shown in FIG. 1. In an example embodiment,the ski conversion device includes tracking element 44B fixedlyconnectable to a ski and adjustable such that in a first position, forexample as shown in FIG. 6A, portion 50 of element 44B extends beyondbottom surface 46 of ski 26 in direction D3 from top surface 44 towardbottom surface 46. In a second position, for example as shown in FIG.6B, portion 50 of element 44B extends no further than bottom surface 46in direction D3. Thus, in the first position, element 44B performs thefunctions described above for element 44A, and in the second position,element 44B does not extend beyond surface 46 to provide the functionsdescribed for element 44A. In an example embodiment, depth 45 of portion50 beyond surface 46 is adjustable. Adjusting and locking mechanism 47Ais used to adjust the position of portion 50, set depth 45, and lockportion 50 in place. Mechanism 47A can be any adjusting or lockingmechanism known in the art, including, but not limited to a cliparrangement, a pin arrangement, a ratchet system, a cam system, a leversystem, a resilient element, or a dial/screw system. For example, inFIGS. 6A and 6B, element 44B pivots about pin 49 to control depth 45 and47A is a pin mechanism using pin 51 and bracket 53 to lock element 44Bin place.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are respective cross-sectional details of trackingelement 44C. In an example embodiment, the ski conversion deviceincludes tracking element 44C fixedly connectable to a ski andadjustable such that in a first position, for example as shown in FIG.7A, portion 50 of element 44C extends beyond bottom surface 46 of ski 26in direction D3 from top surface 38 toward bottom surface 46. In asecond position, for example as shown in FIG. 7B, portion 50 of element44C extends no further than bottom surface 46 in direction D3. Thus, inthe first position, element 44C performs the functions described abovefor element 44A, and in the second position, element 44C does not extendbeyond surface 46 to provide the functions described for element 44A. Inan example embodiment, depth 45 of portion 50 beyond surface 46 isadjustable. In an example embodiment, ski 26 includes opening 55.

In the position shown in FIG. 7A, portion 49 of element 44C is disposedin opening 55 and portion 50 of the tracking element extends beyond thebottom surface in direction D3 from the top surface toward the bottomsurface. Thus, in the first position, element 44C performs the functionsdescribed above for element 44A, and in the second position, element 44Cdoes not extend beyond surface 46 to provide the functions described forelement 44A. In an example embodiment, depth 45 of portion 50 beyondsurface 46 is adjustable. Adjusting and locking mechanism 47B is used toadjust the position of portion 50, set depth 45, and lock portion 50 inplace. Mechanism 47B can be any adjusting or locking mechanism known inthe art, including, but not limited to a clip arrangement, a pinarrangement, a ratchet system, a cam system, a lever system, a resilientelement, or a dial/screw system. For example, in FIGS. 7A and 7B, 47B isa pin mechanism using pin 57 and bracket 59 to lock element 44C inplace. It should be understood that opening 55 is not limited to anyparticular location on skis 26.

Although tracking element 44A is shown attached to ski 26A in FIG. 1, itshould be understood, as noted above, that tracking element 44A can beattached to ski 26B instead. More generally, tracking elements 44A, 44B,or 44C can be attached to either of skis 26A and 26B. It also should beunderstood that a respective tracking element 44A, 44B, or 44C can beattached to each of the skis. It should be understood that more than onetracking element 44A, 44B, or 44C can be attached to a ski. It should beunderstood that a tracking element 44A, 44B, or 44C is not limited to aparticular position on a ski, for example, a tracking element 44A, 44B,or 44C can be attached anywhere along the length of a ski and can beattached to an outside edge of a ski or can be attached to an insideedge of a ski, facing the other ski. Any combination of positions ornumbers of tracking elements 44A, 44B, and 44C are possible. In anexample embodiment not shown, tracking element 44 is connected to runner66 described below.

FIG. 8 is a detail of brake element 52. In an example embodiment, theski conversion device includes brake element 52 with distal end 54 andend 56 for connection to an end of a ski. Distal end 54 includes distaledge 61. End 56 can be connected to the ski by any means known in theart, including, but not limited to, threaded fasteners or rivets. In anexample embodiment, the brake element pivots with respect to the ski,for example, hinge, or pivot, 58 connects end 56 with body 60 of thebrake element. For movement of the ski across a surface (not shown) inforward direction D2, the brake element is for pivoting with respect tothe end of the ski such that the distal end and the distal edge slideover the surface without hindering movement in the forward direction.That is, the distal end and the distal edge do not dig into, wedge into,or burrow into, the surface and the brake element offers only nominalresistance to movement across the surface. Stated otherwise, the forceinteraction of the brake element with the surface tends to push thebrake element away from the surface in rotational direction R2.

For movement of the ski across the surface in backward direction D1, thebody and distal end of the brake element pivot with respect to the ski,for example in rotational direction R1, such that the distal end and thedistal edge engages, burrows into, or digs into, the surface to resistmovement of the ski in the backward direction. That is, the forceinteraction of the brake element with the surface tends to cause thebrake element to dig into, wedge into, or burrow into the surface morereadily, inhibiting the movement of the ski in direction D1. The distalend can include features such as surface texture, concavity, orprotrusions to enhance burrowing into the surface.

FIG. 9 is a schematic detail of brake element 52 with a resilientelement 63, for the ski conversion device shown in FIG. 1. In an exampleembodiment, brake element 52 includes resilient element 63 urging distalend 54 and distal edge 61 in direction R1. Thus, the resilient elementurges distal end 54 and distal edge 61 into positive engagement with thesurface with which ski 26, to which the brake element is attached, is incontact. Thus, if the ski begins to displace in direction D1, the brakeelement engages the surface noted above and even more quickly blocksmovement in direction D1. In an example embodiment, pivot 58 is formedas part of the ski, for example, pin 91 passes through an opening formedin the end of the ski.

In an example embodiment, brake element 52 is in its operational stateat all times. That is, the brake element maintains contact with thesurface noted above at all time without any action required by a user ofdevice 10. Specifically, the user does not have to activate any type ofengagement mechanism for the brake to be in contact with the surfacenoted above. In an example embodiment (not shown), brake element 52 ispositionable so that the distal end and distal edge do not contact thesurface noted above, for example, enabling backward movement of the skiswhen desired.

FIG. 10 is a detail of rigger element 62 for ski conversion device 10.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic drawings showing respectiveconfigurations of rigger element 62 for the ski conversion device shownin FIG. 1. The rigger element is connectable to a ski 26 and includesrunner element 66. In a first position, for example as shown in FIG.11A, the runner element is locatable between skis 26A and 26B. In asecond position, for example as shown in FIG. 11B, the runner element islocatable beyond the first ski in a direction from the second ski towardthe first ski. For example, the runner element is beyond side 72 of ski26A in direction L2 from ski 26B toward ski 26A. In an exampleembodiment, element 66 includes central element 64 connectable to a ski,for example, ski 26A and arm 68 connecting the runner element to thecentral element. Element 64 can be connected to the ski by any meansknown in the art, including, but not limited to, threaded fasteners orrivets.

In an example embodiment, the height of the runner element, for example,with respect to the top or bottom surface of the ski to which the riggerelement is attached, and the lateral distance LD of the runner elementfrom the ski to which the rigger element is attached can be adjusted,for example by using the arm. Although the rigger element is shownattached to ski 26A, it should be understood that the rigger element canbe attached to ski 26B instead. It also should be understood that arespective rigger element can be attached to each of the skis. It shouldbe understood that more than one rigger element can be attached to aski. It should be understood that a rigger element is not limited to aparticular position on a ski.

In an example embodiment (not shown) bottom surfaces 46 of skis 26A and26B and bottom surface 73 of the runner are co-planar. Thus, the runneracts to add additional lateral stability, in particular for a levelsurface upon which the skis are traversing. In an example embodiment,for example as shown in FIG. 11A, bottom surface 73 of the runnerelement is located, in direction D3 from the top surface toward thebottom surface of the ski, beyond the bottom surface of the respectivesurface 46. Thus, surface 73 is off-set in direction D3. In an exampleembodiment, for example as shown in FIG. 11B, the bottom surface of therunner element is located, in direction D4, opposite direction D3,beyond the bottom surface of the ski. For example, for this position,the position of the runner element with respect to the bottom surface ofski 26 can be set such that skis 26 bear the main weight of the trailerand the rigger element act as an outrigger to stabilize the traileragainst sideways tipping. Thus, surface 73 is off-set in direction D4.Thus, the runner acts to add additional lateral stability for a surface,in particular, an uneven or sloped surface, upon which the skis aretraversing.

For example, if the ski device and trailer are being used on a groomedtrail with grooves in the surface for cross-country skis, and a riggerelement is installed on one or both of skis 26, the rigger element orelements can be placed in the position shown in FIG. 11A, and therespective positions of the runner elements with respect to sides 70 canbe set such that each runner element engages a respective groove. Therespective positions of the runner element with respect to the bottomsurfaces of skis 26 can be set such that the runner element bear themain weight of the trailer and skis 26 act as outriggers to stabilizethe trailer against sideways tipping. Thus, advantage can be taken ofthe grooves to maintain the trailer in a stable position.

In an example embodiment, runner 66 is in the shape of a ski. Runner 66is not limited to a particular length, width, or shape. In an exampleembodiment, arm 68 includes portion 71 disposed within central portion64. In an example embodiment, portion 71 swivels, or rotates, withincentral portion 64 to attain the first and second positions noted above.Portion 71 is lockable in the first or second positions by any meansknown in the art, for example, pins 75. In an example embodiment (notshown), central portion 64 and portion 71 have matching configurations,for example, both have a square shape, such that portion 71 can slide inand out of portion 64 and is fixed with respect to the central portionwhen disposed within the central portion. To move arm 68 to the first orsecond position, portion 71 is lifted out of the central portion andthen re-inserted with the arm in the desired orientation.

In an example embodiment, arm 68 includes lateral portion 74. In anexample embodiment, the length of portion 74 is fixed. In an exampleembodiment, the length of portion 74 can be adjusted by any means knownin the art. For example, portion 64 includes slot 78 and portion 74 isslidable through the slot. The position of portion 74 in the slotdetermines the distance from portion 64 to the runner element (thelength of the arm). Portion 74 can be fixed in the slot by any meansknown in the art, for example, pin 80 and openings 82.

As noted above, the height of the runner element, for example, withrespect to the top surface of a ski can be adjusted using the arm andany means known in the art. For example openings 84 in portions 64 and71 and pin 75 can be used. Portion 71 is moved up or down within portion64 until respective openings 84 in portions 64 and 71 associated with adesired position of the runner element are aligned. Pin 75 is theninserted in the respective openings to lock portion 71 with respect toportion 64. Pins 75 and 80 can be any pin known in the art. In anexample embodiment, pins 75 and/or 80 include a quick release feature.In an example embodiment, portion 64 is integral to skis 26, forexample, formed of a same piece of material as the top of the ski. Itshould be understood that the various components of rigger element 62can be made integral, for example, the arm can be made integral to therunner element.

Further details are now provided. Each wheel of the trailer ispositioned in a respective wheel brace. If the tires of the wheels arenot in contact with one or both the side walls of the respective braces,for example, if the tires are narrower than the width of the wheel brace(distance between walls 34), shims (not shown) can be inserted to takeup the space between the tires and the side walls. Any shim known in theart can be used. In an example embodiment, the shims are rectangularplates. In an example embodiment (not shown), the side walls for thewheel braces are laterally displaceable, that is, the width between theside walls in the wheel brace is adjustable to firmly grip a wheelinserted in the wheel brace. The wheel brace is not limited to anyparticular width adjustment.

The wheel braces, connecting elements, and shims, if used, stabilize thewheels in first and second direction substantially parallel to andorthogonal to, respectively, the axle for wheels 28. Specifically,connecting elements 20 are used to secure the wheels of the trailer tothe wheel braces. For example, the connecting elements are positionedover respective inner circumferences, or rims, of the wheels. Theconnecting elements are secured to the wheel braces by any means knownin the art and are tightened by any means known in the art. Tighteningthe connecting elements urges the wheels into the brace and inconjunction with the wheel braces and shims, if used, firmly holds thewheels in place in the wheel braces. That is, the straps prevent thewheels from rolling forward or backward within the wheel braces or fromlifting out of the wheel braces. Thus, the connecting elementarrangement enables a locking of the wheels of the trailer with thewheel braces.

To stabilize the trailer with respect to the skis, for example, toprevent the trailer from rocking by swiveling around the axle for thewheels, and to fix a desired orientation of the trailer with respect tothe skis, orientation elements 22 are connected to the orientationbraces and to the trailer. In an example embodiment, orientationelements 22 are looped through orientation braces 18 and a portion ofthe trailer. The straps are then cinched and tightened using any meansknown in the art. By adjusting opposing straps, for example, orientationelements 22A and 22B, the trailer is prevented, by the opposing forcesapplied to the trailer by the opposing straps, from swiveling about theaxle. The orientation of the trailer with respect to the skis, that is,the position of the trailer with respect to the axle is determined bythe respective lengths of opposing straps. For example, shorteningorientation element 22A, while lengthening orientation element 22B,causes the trailer to rotate about the wheel axle in counterclockwisedirection CCW.

Straps 22 exert force F1 urging the stroller or the bicycle trailer, forexample, the respective connection points 23, toward the ski to which arespective orientation element 22 is attached, in particular to thebrace 18 to which the orientation element is attached. The respectiveforces F1 for a ski 26 are constant and are in equilibrium to preventrotation of the stroller or the bicycle trailer with respect to the axisof rotation.

In an example embodiment (not shown), one or more bands are placed aboutthe trailer, or one or more securing elements are connected to thetrailer, for example, a securing element is a clamp. The straps aresecured to the band(s) or securing element(s), for example, rather thanbeing placed, or looped, through a structural component of the trailer.

The yoke braces enable desired movement of the yokes, while limiting oreliminating undesired movement of the yokes. Thus, swivel portions ofthe yoke braces, for example, pins 42, provide pivoting connectionbetween the yokes and the skis. For example, the swivel portion enablesswiveling movement of the yokes in a direction roughly orthogonal to theground, for example, D3 or D4, that is, an up-down movement, whilesubstantially limiting sideways movement of the yokes, for example, indirections L1 or L2. Thus, movement of the distal ends of the yokes (theends furthest from the trailer), for example, as would be associatedwith relative movement between a user of the conversion device and thetrailer, for example, due to changes in the terrain or movement of thesource of energy for propelling the ski conversion device, isaccommodated while enabling the trailer to maintain a substantiallystable orientation with respect to forward direction D2. For example,the trailer is not necessarily lifted by an upward motion of the distalends of the yokes.

The source of energy for propelling device 10 is attached to the distalends of the yokes by any means known in the art. In an exampleembodiment, padded waist belt 90 is connected to the distal ends of theyokes. In an example embodiment, the respective lengths of the yokes areadjustable. For example, each yoke includes telescoping portions 24A and24B. Any telescoping configuration known in the art can be used. Forexample, portion 24B is slidable within portion 24A and any means knownin the art can be used to secure the portions together. That is, onceportion 24B is displaced within portion 24A to a desired extent, theportions can be locked together to maintain the relative position of theportions. Portions 24A and 24B are not limited to any particular lengthor diameter.

In an example embodiment, the yokes are modular. For example, portions24A and 24B can be connected by any quick-disconnect joint 92 known inthe art and one or more additional yoke portions can be insertedbetween, or at either end of, portions 24A and 24B.

Also, one or both of portions 24A and 24B can be removed or replacedwith a different length of yoke. Thus, the respective overall lengths ofthe yokes can be customized and made proportional to the size orpreference of the end user. Connecting the yokes to a belt or harnesssystem enables a person pulling trailer 12 on skis 26 to keep theirhands free. Yoke 24 is sufficiently rigid to maintain a substantiallyconstant distance between the trailer and a person pulling the trailer.That is, the yokes hold the skis away from the source of energy forpropelling the ski conversion device. The lateral, or side-to-side,rigidity of the yokes in the yoke braces keeps the trailer aligned witha person pulling the trailer, preventing the trailer from slidinglaterally. That is, the rigidity of the connectors minimizes lateralmovement of the trailer with respect to the person while maintaining theability of the yokes to swivel in an up-down direction.

In an example embodiment, attachment devices, for example, clips,connected to ends 32 of the yokes are suitable for connection to anydevice known in the art for interface with a person, animal, or machinepulling device 10, for example, including a backpack, clothing, aharness or trace for an animal, or a powered vehicle, such as a snowmobile.

Advantageously, the flexibility and adaptability inherent in device 10enables device 10 to be used with a wide variety of bicycle trailers orstrollers. For example, the wheel braces and the shims are adaptable toa wide range of wheel/tire widths. The length adjustability of theconnecting elements enables the straps to be used with a wide range ofwheels/tire widths and diameters. In like manner, orientation elements22 are readily adaptable to a wide range of sizes and shapes for trailer12 or stroller 13, for example, due to the adjustability of the strapsand the ability for a user to select a location on the skis for theorientation braces. Thus, device 10 is usable with virtually any bicycletrailer or jogging stroller.

Thus, it is seen that the objects of the present invention areefficiently obtained, although modifications and changes to theinvention should be readily apparent to those having ordinary skill inthe art, which modifications are intended to be within the spirit andscope of the invention as claimed. It also is understood that theforegoing description is illustrative of the present invention andshould not be considered as limiting. Therefore, other embodiments ofthe present invention are possible without departing from the spirit andscope of the present invention.

What I claim is:
 1. A ski conversion device for a stroller or a bicycletrailer with first and second wheels, comprising: first and second wheelbraces for attachment to first and second skis and for receiving thefirst and second wheels, respectively; a plurality of connectingelements for fixing the first and second wheels with respect to thefirst and second wheel braces, respectively; a plurality of orientationbraces for attachment to the first and second skis; a plurality oforientation elements for connecting the stroller or the bicycle trailerto the plurality of orientation braces and for fixing an orientation ofthe stroller or the bicycle trailer with respect to the first and secondskis; a rigger element for connecting to the first ski and including arunner element; and, first and second yokes for connection to the firstand second skis, respectively, the first and second yokes attachable toa source of energy for propelling the ski conversion device, wherein: ina first position, the runner element is locatable between the first andsecond skis; and, in a second position, the runner element is locatablebeyond the first ski in a direction from the second ski toward the firstski.
 2. The ski conversion device of claim 1, wherein the rigger elementincludes a central element connectable to the first ski and an armconnecting the runner element to the central element.
 3. The skiconversion device of claim 1, wherein: the first and second skisinclude: first and second top surfaces to which the first and secondwheel braces are arranged to attach, respectively; first and secondbottom surfaces facing opposite the first and second top surfaces,respectively; the runner element includes a third bottom surface; and,the runner element is connectable to the first ski such that: the thirdbottom surface is off-set from the first and second bottom surfaces in adirection from the first bottom surface toward the first top surface;or, the third bottom surface is off-set from the first and second bottomsurfaces in a direction from the first top surface toward the firstbottom surface.
 4. A ski conversion device for a stroller or a bicycletrailer with first and second wheels, comprising: first and second wheelbraces for attachment to first and second skis and for receiving thefirst and second wheels, respectively; a plurality of orientation bracesfor attachment to the first and second skis; a first plurality ofconnecting elements for fixing the first and second wheels with respectto the first and second wheel braces, respectively; a plurality oforientation elements for connecting the stroller or the bicycle trailerto the plurality of orientation braces; a first tracking element forconnection to the first ski; and, first and second yokes for connectionto the first and second skis, respectively, the first and second yokesattachable to a source of energy for propelling the ski conversiondevice, wherein: the first ski includes a first top surface to which thefirst wheel brace is connectable and a first bottom surface, oppositethe top surface; and, in a first position, a first portion of the firsttracking element extends beyond the first bottom surface in a firstdirection from the first top surface toward the first bottom surface. 5.The ski conversion device of claim 4, wherein in a second position, thefirst portion of the first tracking element extends no further than thefirst bottom surface in the first direction.
 6. The ski conversiondevice of claim 4, wherein in the first position: the first portion ofthe first tracking element is located between the first and second skis;or, the first portion of the first tracking element is located beyondthe first ski in a second direction from the second ski toward the firstski.
 7. The ski conversion device of claim 4, wherein: the firsttracking element includes a depth adjustment mechanism; and, a distanceby which the first portion of the first tracking element extends beyondthe first bottom surface in the first direction is selectable using thedepth adjustment mechanism.
 8. The ski conversion device of claim 4,further comprising: a second tracking element for connection to thesecond ski, wherein: the second ski includes a second top surface towhich the second wheel brace is connectable and a second bottom surface,opposite the second top surface; in a third position, a portion of thesecond tracking element extends beyond the second bottom surface in asecond direction from the second top surface toward the second bottomsurface; and, in a fourth position, the portion of the second trackingelement extends no further than the second bottom surface in the seconddirection.
 9. The ski conversion device of claim 8, wherein in the thirdposition: the portion of the second tracking element is located betweenthe first and second skis; or, the portion of the second trackingelement is located beyond the second ski in a third direction from thefirst ski toward the second ski.
 10. The ski conversion device of claim4, wherein: the first ski includes an opening passing through the firstski; and, in the first position: the first portion of the first trackingelement is aligned with the first ski in the first direction; and, asecond portion of the first tracking element is disposed in the opening.11. A ski conversion device for a stroller or a bicycle trailer withfirst and second wheels, comprising: first and second wheel braces: forconnection to first and second skis, respectively; and, to receive thefirst and second wheels, respectively; a first plurality of connectingelements for fixing the first wheel with respect to the first wheelbrace; a second plurality of connecting elements for fixing the secondwheel with respect to the second wheel brace; first and secondorientation braces for connection to the first ski; a first orientationelement including: a first end connected to the first orientation brace;and, a second end for connection to at least one first point on thestroller or bicycle trailer; a second orientation element including: athird end connected to the second orientation brace; and, a fourth endfor connection to at least one second point on the stroller or bicycletrailer; and first and second yokes for connection to the first andsecond skis, respectively, the first and second yokes attachable to asource of energy for propelling the ski conversion device, wherein: thestroller or bicycle trailer includes an axis of rotation for the firstand second wheels; and, respective lengths of the first and secondorientation elements are adjustable such that an orientation of thestroller or bicycle trailer with respect to the axis of rotation isfixed by the first and second orientation elements.
 12. The skiconversion device of claim 11, wherein the at least one first point isseparate from the at least one second point.
 13. The ski conversiondevice of claim 11, wherein the respective lengths of the first andsecond orientation elements are selectable such that the first andsecond orientation elements exert constant first and second forces,respectively, urging the at least one first and second points of thestroller or bicycle trailer toward the first ski.
 14. The ski conversiondevice of claim 11, wherein: the stroller or bicycle trailer includes anaxis of rotation for the first and second wheels; the first and secondorientation elements include first and second adjustment devices,respectively; and, the respective lengths of the first and secondorientation elements are adjustable via the first and second adjustmentdevices, respectively, to prevent rotation of the stroller or thebicycle trailer about the axis of rotation.
 15. A ski conversion devicefor a stroller or a bicycle trailer with first and second wheels,comprising: first and second wheel braces: for connection to first andsecond skis, respectively; and, to receive the first and second wheels,respectively; a first plurality of connecting elements for fixing thefirst wheel with respect to the first wheel brace; a second plurality ofconnecting elements for fixing the second wheel with respect to thesecond wheel brace; an orientation brace for connection to the firstski; a rigid orientation element including: a first end connected to theorientation brace; and, a second end for connection to the stroller orbicycle trailer; and, first and second yokes for connection to the firstand second skis, respectively, the first and second yokes attachable toa source of energy for propelling the ski conversion device, wherein:the stroller or bicycle trailer includes an axis of rotation for thefirst and second wheels; and, the length of the rigid orientationelement is adjustable such that an orientation of the stroller orbicycle trailer with respect to the axis of rotation is fixed by therigid orientation element.
 16. A ski conversion device for a stroller ora bicycle trailer with first and second wheels, comprising: first andsecond wheel braces for attachment to first and second skis and forreceiving the first and second wheels, respectively; a first pluralityof connecting elements for fixing the first and second wheels withrespect to the first and second wheel braces, respectively; a pluralityof orientation braces for attachment to the first and second skis; aplurality of orientation elements for connecting the stroller or thebicycle trailer to the plurality of orientation braces; a brake elementincluding: a first end proximate an end of the first ski; and, a distalend, with a distal edge, extending beyond the end of the first ski; and,first and second yokes for connection to the first and second skis,respectively, the first and second yokes attachable to a source ofenergy for propelling the ski conversion device, wherein: for movementof the first and second skis in a forward direction, the distal edge isarranged to slide over a surface upon which the first and second skisare riding without wedging into the surface; and, for movement of thefirst and second skis in a backward direction, opposite the forwarddirection, the distal edge is arranged to wedge into the surface toretard movement of the first and second skis in the backward direction.17. The ski conversion device of claim 16, wherein: the brake elementincludes a resilient element; the first ski includes a top surface towhich the first wheel brace is connectable and a bottom surface,opposite the top surface; and, the resilient element urges the at leastone distal end in a direction from the top surface toward the bottomsurface.